Gala Celebrates the Memory of Valentina Allen

Valentina’s parents Ryan and Danielle and sister Victoria are all smiles about the new baby girl they will be welcoming into their hearts and home this May.

By Forum Staff

The Howard Beach community again came out in force–more than 300 of them, decked out in their finest red attire– to honor the memory of Valentina Allen, who captured the hearts of so many during her struggle with heart disease.

Russo’s on the Bay hosted the gala event for the second time since Valentina’s passing, raising over $25,000 to be donated to the cause of helping children afflicted with the same type of illness that took Valentina’s life two years ago.

The event was held February 15th, which marked her 4th birthday.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) where Valentina spent so much of her life in treatment. The monies go to the Child Life program to help families, who like the Allen’s take up residence at the hospital where their children are undergoing treatment. Another portion of the funds are dedicated to research programs to create new therapies for babies as yet unborn.

Team Valentina has, to date, raised over $350K for CHOP. In attendance at the event were two of the physicians on staff at CHOP, Dr. Rossano and Dr. Naim, who thanked the family and the community for all they have done to help so many families while keeping the memory of Valentina alive.

Event organizer, Phyllis Inserillo, praised the community and all of those who donated their time and talent so generously to make the evening a success. Local band Current Affair, photographer Elena D’Este and local merchants who donated dozens of raffle prizes and gifts to help make the evening a tremendous success.